February 1 - Pitt County Government

PITT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
GREENVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
FEBRUARY 1, 1999
The Pitt County Board of Commissioners met in a regular session meeting on Monday, February
1, 1999, at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Auditorium, Pitt County Office Building, Greenville,
North Carolina with the following commissioners present:
Eugene James, Chairman
Jeffrey E. Savage, Vice Chairman
Glenn Bowen, Commissioner
Charles P. Gaskins, Commissioner
David Hammond, Commissioner
Thomas H. Johnson, Commissioner
Mark W. Owens, Jr., Commissioner
M. Theresa Shank, Commissioner
Beth B. Ward, Commissioner
Also present were:
Thomas B. Robinson, County Manager
JoAnne Burgdorff, County Attorney
Susan J. Banks, Clerk to the Board
Arlen Holt, PIO and Cable Coordinator
John K. Bulow, Assistant Manager
Melonie Bryan, Director of Financial Services
Call to Order and welcome by Chairman James.
Prayer by Commissioner Owens.
Pledge by Commissioner Johnson.
Approval of Agenda
There were no changes made to the agenda. Chairman James announced the agenda
approved as presented.
Approval of Minutes
Chairman James asked for approval of the minutes.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Owens, seconded by Commissioner Gaskins, the
Board voted unanimously to approve the minutes of the December 21, 1998, January 4 and 13,
1999 meetings.
Public Addresses to the Board
Chairman James asked that speakers limit their comments to three minutes each.
Nancy Colville commented on the following items:
• Mental Health Program - reviewed 1997 minutes of Mental Health Area Board. Stated that
Mental Health had not properly used a computer system for billing which had caused a bad
debt write off of $2.0 million. The County is losing interest on money being fronted to Mental
Health and then they come up short. The County is losing the money not mental health.
Area Director being paid a lot of money, same problems are still here. She prepared budget
on her own and still problems exist. She’s filled 39 positions. Some were new. Then she
hired a consultant that makes the same recommendation that was made two years ago by
County Finance Department. Mental Health Board is to blame for these ongoing problems.
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They receive monthly reports, which informs them of the problems. Ms. Stelle worked for
Dr. Baggett who volunteered to be on the search committee for the Mental Health Director
and Ms. Stelle’s husband also works for Dr. Baggett. Why are we paying the Mental Health
Director over $100,000 when we don’t pay other Department Heads that kind of salary?
Dr. Ed Bright commented on the following items:
• Consideration of removing him from the GTP Zone Commission. He said he was not only
concerned with his service on this Board, but the precedent that the Board would be setting
by removing him in the middle of this term. He said that if he were removed it would
represent the first time, in his recollection, that they removed someone in mid-term of
serving their term. He stated it does not look ethical on behalf of the Board and hoped that it
will not be their practice on other boards. Dr. Bright noted a letter from Global TransPark
Chairman, which was sent to each commissioner about the current board members and their
terms. He stated that each of those appointments are to be made by the whole Board and
referred to the by-laws that state that members serve full terms and without action by this
Board, Dr. Bright would continue serving until June 30, 2001.
Commissioner Bowen said that Dr. Bright was part of the Board that appointed new
Trustees to the Hospital Board four months early for the first time.
Kathy Kier made the following comments:
• Ms. Kier stated that she had waited for three months for the Board to appoint an advisory
committee to oversee the operations of the Farmers Market. She said she was aware that
three additional people have also called the Manager. She asked Mr. Robinson if he had
any progress on this item? He stated that the staff has been working on this item and has a
report scheduled for the February 15 th Board meeting. Ms. Kier stated that she has a
meeting with Tom scheduled for Tuesday and asked that someone from the Legal
Department also attend.
Commissioner Hammond asked about the delay on this item. Chairman James stated
that Mitch Smith, Cooperative Extension Director, is in charge of the Farmer’s Market and he will
stay in charge. He said that he has talked with Mr. Smith and the staff and they are working on a
recommendation for the Board but that everyone may not be satisfied. Vice Chairman Savage
noted that a motion was made and approved that the Manager and Attorney work on this item
and he was concerned about the delay. Mr. Robinson responded that the Extension Director,
Assistant Manager and County Attorney have met and are working on the recommendation on
the Farmer’s Market but since the market is not open, this was not as urgent as some other
issues at this time.
Ms. Kier also mentioned that she was having trouble getting a response on her work as a
non-profit.
Manager’s Report - Tom Robinson
Mr. Robinson reported that the National Association of Counties conference will be held
in Washington, DC on February 26-March 2. He asked Commissioners to let Ms. Banks know if
they desire to attend so that she can send in the registration. Commissioners Bowen, Hammond
and Savage indicated their desire to attend.
Ms. Shank asked if there was a travel policy for county commissioners. Chairman
James directed the staff to work on such a policy. Discussion continued concerning
Commissioners’ State and Annual conferences.
Commissioner Shank offered a motion for the Board to review the policy and to schedule
a meeting to discuss expectations for the benefit of the new Commissioners.
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Vice Chairman Savage seconded the motion. Commissioner Hammond mentioned the NACO
meeting where several commissioners canceled at the last minute and staff attended so that the
registration monies would not be lost. Vice Chairman Savage stated that the conferences are
educational as well as an opportunity for networking. He said he would not support limiting
commissioners’ attendance at the conferences. Chairman James called for a vote on the motion
by Commissioner Shank. The motion was approved unanimously.
Mr. Robinson asked for more direction from the Board. Chairman James asked for a
report on the Commissioners travel expenses over the last two to three years.
Commissioner Shank asked for a list of conferences that are available to the Board of
Commissioners. She stated that they may gain more from Statewide conferences versus
National conferences. Commissioner Hammond said he thought some of these conferences
should be mandated that the whole Board attend.
Certification of NC Development Zone - Tom Robinson
Mr. Robinson reported that the Economic Development Commission has worked to have
the industrial park, north of the river, certified. He said it was eligible for $1,000 tax credit in the
past but now the park area can receive a $5,000 credit. Dr. Bright noted that this was the effort
of the Global TransPark.
Tobacco Settlement - Tom Robinson
Mr. Robinson stated that $5.0 million was being dedicated for health and education
interest across the State and there are also counties that need the monies for loss of tobacco
income. Mr. Robinson said that it would be appropriate for Pitt County to have a representative
on this committee.
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Hammond, to
appoint Lawrence Davenport to the tobacco settlement committee being established by the
Governor and send a resolution representing Pitt County’s concern.
Commissioner Gaskins suggested Dan Wynne, President of the Farm Bureau also be
considered. Commissioner Bowen offered Dan Wynne’s name as a nomination to the tobacco
settlement committee being established by the Governor.
Chairman James stated that he had met with both men and that Mr. Wynne would be
actively involved in the tobacco settlement negotiations also.
Chairman James called for a vote on Dan Wynne’s nomination. Commissioners
Gaskins, Hammond and Bowen voted for Dan Wynne. Commissioners Johnson, Owens,
Savage, Ward, Shank, and James voted for Lawrence Davenport to represent Pitt County
farmers on the Governor’s tobacco settlement committee which is yet to be established. Mr.
Robinson said he would ask Mitch Smith, Cooperative Extension Director, to write the resolution
for the Board to send to the Governor since he is most familiar with the needs to be addressed.
Mr. Robinson stated the Greenville City Council has requested a joint meeting with the
Board of Commissioners. The subjects would include transportation, at-risk youth, local option
sales tax, animal control, and more but the meeting needs to be scheduled after the February
22, 1999 workshop. He asked the Commissioners to contact him concerning possible meeting
dates and any additional topics they would like to discuss at this meeting. Commissioner
Hammond stated he would like to discuss the Sedgefield area.
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Shank, the
Board voted unanimously to schedule a joint meeting with the Greenville City Council.
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Grant Applications
Mr. Robinson said he had approved some pre-applications to be submitted for grant
funds. The County has received a Grant Award for mobile data terminals, in the amount of
$53,664 for the Sheriff’s Department. An additional grant, which will be administered by
Cornerstone Baptist Church and is in their second year of funding, was received. The Victims
Advocate Office received a grant for $47,531 for a two-year period which requires a local match
grant of approximately $15,000.
Mr. Robinson reported that an additional grant for mobile date units was received in the
amount of $56,403 and a local match of approximately $18,000 to $19,000 was needed.
Mr. Rick Fisher, Deputy Sheriff, presented the mobile data grant request and explained
that this grant is to put computers in the deputies cars. He stated it would save time and they
could use them out in the field for immediate information on investigations. He said they could
get more accurate information, that Cumberland County is already using them. Their
productivity rates have skyrocketed. This is a wonderful start for the County to only have to
designate $18,000 and receive $75,000 in equipment. Mr. Fisher said this would also help with a
safety issue because once a deputy leaves the County currently, he cannot communicate with
the Sheriff’s Department or County. With the new terminals, they will have better on-line
communications.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Ward, seconded by Commissioner Hammond, the
Board voted unanimously to support these grant applications presented by the County Manager
and Rick Fisher. Vice Chairman Savage stated that this equipment must be coordinated with
and supported by the MIS Director. Mr. Fisher said that the MIS Department was in support of
this grant.
Monthly Financial Report – Melonie Bryan, Director of Financial Services
Ms. Bryan stated that the Board had received her written report and that all funds are
operating right at budget except Mental Health. She reported that the staff at the Mental Health
Center is reworking the situation to bring it into an acceptable budget.
Ms. Bryan reported that the County had a very successful bond sale last week.
She reported that approximately $9 million was financed with an interest rate of 3.98% and the
County received upgrade from Fitch rating agency, which has a direct relationship to the fund
balance. Vice Chairman Savage stated that Ms. Bryan has worked hard to achieve this new
rating and stated that much money will be saved thanks to Ms. Bryan’s diligence.
Commissioner Shank asked what the County Finance Officer’s authority is over the
Mental Health Budget. Ms. Bryan stated that the County pays Mental Health’s bills but it does
not oversee their operations. Commissioner Johnson stated that the Manager has been working
diligently with the Mental Health Area Board and staff to correct the situation. Commissioner
Shank asked if the County could intervene? Mr. Robinson said that they are a freestanding
agency with their own Area Board, but he can research what authority the County has over
Mental Health. Commissioner Hammond expressed his desire to get Mental Health’s finances
straightened out. Chairman James said that if they cannot straighten it out, then we can replace
the Board members.
Chairman Shank motioned to have the Manager look into how much the County can do
to over take the finances of the Mental Health Center. Vice Chairman Savage seconded the
motion and the motion carried unanimously.
Special Olympics Report - Alice Keene
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Ms. Keene reported that the World summer games of the Special Olympics would be
held in North Carolina in June 1999. Pitt County will be the host community prior to the games
for the Japanese delegation. Ms. Keene stated that she had been working with the City of
Greenville and East Carolina University in order to be ready to host the Japanese delegation on
June 21-25 th . She said there would be representatives from the Board of County Commissioners
and the Board of Education present at a welcome and kickoff ceremony. She stated that they are
looking for 35,000 to 40,000 volunteers to work at the games. Vice Chairman Savage suggested
that a coordinated effort with John Chaffee’s office, the Development Commission, would be
beneficial.
Chairman James called for a five-minute break.
Chairman James called the meeting back to order.
Items for Consent
Mr. Robinson read a list of the items.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Hammond, seconded by Commissioner Gaskins, the
Board unanimously approved the consent items as presented.
1. Social Services - Educational Leave for DonnaLynn Dixon
2. MIS – Educational Leave for Richard Gordon
3. Mental Health – Educational Leave for Wendye Henderson and Chris Thompson
4. Tax Releases and Refunds Greater than $100
5. Insurance Deductible Payments for Calvin Miller case in the amount of $8,446.08
($7,500 + $946.08)
6. Insurance Deductible Payments for Annette Bynum case in the amount of $3,250.97
7. Health Department - Budget Amendment for Continuation of State Grant for ”Reach for
Me” program
Account No. Title of Account Increase Decrease
15-3-44-360.00 DEHNR Funds 27,500
15-3-44-120.00 Salaries 16,919
15-5-44-181.00 Social Security 1,231
15-5-44-182.00 Retirement 785
15-5-44-182.01 Supp. Retirement 737
15-5-44-183.00 Hospitalization 1,230
15-5-44-184.01 Life Insurance 21
15-5-44-230.00 Medical Technical Supplies 2,000
15-5-44-260.00 Office Supplies 280
15-5-44-325.00 Postage 175
15-5-44-312.00 Travel 750
15-5-44-700.00 Incentives 1,500
15-5-44-395.00 Advertising 750
15-5-44-341.00 Printing 1,000
15-5-44-440.00 Maintenance Radios 122
8. Accept Cable Companies Rate Adjustments and authorized staff to notify cable service
providers
a. Multimedia Cable – Basic Service from $6.64 to $6.60 per month
Expanded Basic from $16.98 to $18.40 per month
b. Time-Warner – Basic Service from$10.29 to $9.80 per month
Expanded Basic from $17.14 to $18.98 per month
c. Falcon – Maximum Permitted Rate from $24.93 to $25.64
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Items for Decision
Penalty Appeals for Taxes - Jimmie Hardee, Tax Supervisor
Mr. Hardee reported that they follow the rules and regulations as directed by the General
Assembly and they just administer those rules for the Board of County Commissioners.
The first request for appeal of a tax penalty was from Brew Mar, Inc. Mr. Hardee
reported that this penalty was due to a discovery of some equipment which had not been listed.
The penalty was for over $1600. He recommended the penalty be applied.
Commissioner Owens asked if there was any logical reasons for this equipment not
being listed. Mr. Hardee was unaware of any specific reason and noted that it was discovered in
the audit process. He said that they had filed their taxes as normal but had omitted a piece of
equipment. Commissioner Owens said that the County would appear to be punitive if this
company is penalized. Commissioner Shank stated her agreement. Chairmen James stated
that every taxpayer should be treated the same.
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Bowen, the
Board voted six to three to follow the recommendation of the Tax Supervisor. Commissioners in
favor were: Bowen, Shank, Ward, Savage, Johnson, and James. Commissioners opposed were
Owens, Hammond and Gaskins.
The second tax penalty appeal was from Gregory Wayne Allen. Mr. Hardee reported
that this was discovered in 1996 and that the taxpayer had listed in 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 in a
timely manner.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Gaskins, seconded by Vice Chairman Savage, the
Board voted unanimously to follow the recommendation of the Tax Supervisor and deny relief of
the penalty.
The third request for appeal of a penalty was from an industry, NACCO. Mr. Hardee
stated that the attorney was present from NACCO and would like to address the Board. Ms.
Diane Parsons-Salem, Attorney said that the personal property taxes for 1998 were filed by
mailing it in two parts. The taxes totaled $134,843.56. She said that the listing was not received
by the County but was not returned to them either to alert them to a problem. She stated that
during the summer they received a phone call from the Tax Office about the lack of listing but
that their taxes had been paid on time. The penalty was $12,400.36. They had been an industry
in good standing in Pitt County for 25 years. She stated that if they felt that they had done
something wrong they would be glad to pay the penalty and they had no explanation for why the
mailing did not come in to the Tax Office on time. Their total taxes would be $147,271.42 with
the penalty.
Commissioner Bowen asked if this penalty could be negotiated. Mr. Hardee responded
that the Board could negotiate the penalty any way they would like, such as releasing a portion of
the penalty. Commissioner Bowen suggested a 25% fee.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Bowen, seconded by Commissioner Hammond, the
Board voted five to four to release the penalty to NACCO. Commissioners in favor of the motion
were: Owens, Gaskins, Ward, James, and Hammond. Commissioners opposed to the motion
were: Savage, Bowen, Johnson and Shank.
Budget Amendment - Day Care Administration
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UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Hammond, the
Board voted unanimously to approve a budget amendment for the Day Care Program in Social
Services as follows:
ACCOUNT NO. TITLE OF ACCOUNT INCREASE DECREASE
16-5-20-120.00 Salaries 13,686
16-5-20-181.00 Social Security 1,047
16-5-20-182.00 Retirement 670
16-5-20-182.01 Supp Retirement 627
16-5-20-183.00 Hospitalization 1,070
16-5-20-260.00 Office Supplies 1,500
16-5-11-520.00 Computers Equipment 2,500
16-3-00-320.00 Social Services Administration 19,300
16-3-00-800.00 Miscellaneous 1,800
Approval of Franchise for Med 1 Medical Transport and Convalescent Transports, Inc.
Vice Chairman Savage asked the Board to acknowledge that Ms. Joyce Mitchell, from
Congresswoman Eva Clayton’s office was present here at the meeting. Chairman James
welcomed Ms. Mitchell.
Mr. Bobby Joyner, Emergency Management Coordinator, stated that he and the County
Attorney had worked on this item and that the County Attorney was ready to make a report. Mrs.
Burgdorff stated that the staff had reviewed the documents and the process, and that they found
no reason that the franchises should not be granted.
Mr. Doug Bostic said he thought the members of the Committee were supposed to be
able to review the applications. He asked how the County Attorney, Assistant Manager and
Bobby Joyner determined the need for additional medical transports. He said this was not
addressed in the committee meetings. He asked how they can address that it would not
adversely affect other franchises. He said he had reviewed the State Medical Facilities Plan and
that the County is not up for additional certificates of need.
Mr. Joyner stated that the franchise applications met the requirements of the County’s
Ambulance Franchise Ordinance. Vice Chairman Savage stated he was concerned with the
appearance of a conflict of interest by having franchise owners on the committee. Chairman
James said that this business is continually increasing by the increase in rest homes and nursing
homes. Commissioner Hammond said that Pitt County looks like a hot bed for new funeral
homes and ambulance services. Commissioner Hammond stated that competition is good if
there is enough business, but there is not enough business right now. He also noted that some
of these businesses are already operating in other counties. He suggested the County should
take a good look at the amount of business available. Commissioner Gaskins asked to hear
from the County Attorney and the Assistant Manager. Mrs. Burgdorff said that the amount of
business is not for the County to determine. There does appear to be a conflict of interest in
having people on the committee that are franchise owners. As the Ordinance is now written the
applications were correctly made, the County should approve the franchises. Commissioner
Hammond suggested tabling this item until the conflict of interest is resolved. Mr. John Bulow
said that Bobby Joyner had addressed the concerns appropriately and he felt that it would be
unfair to the businesses to continue to delay this item.
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Hammond, the
Board voted three to six on tabling the request for new ambulance service franchises.
Commissioners in support of tabling this item were: Savage, Owens, and Hammond.
Commissioners opposed to tabling this item were: Bowen, Gaskins, James, Johnson, Shank,
and Ward.
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UPON MOTION by Commissioner Ward, seconded by Commissioner Shank, the Board
voted six to three to accept the staff recommendation to grant two new ambulance service
franchises, Med 1 Medical Transport and Convalescent Transports, Inc. for both non-emergency
basic life support transportation. Commissioners in favor of the motion were: Ward, Johnson,
James, Bowen, Shank and Commissioner Owens, Commissioners opposed were: Savage,
Hammond, and Gaskins.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Gaskins, seconded by Vice Chairman Savage, the
Board voted unanimously to instruct the County Attorney to look into the Ambulance Franchise
Ordinance and Committee member specifications.
Proposed Changes in Hours of Operation of Recycling Centers - Phil Dickerson
Mr. Dickerson presented a proposed change in the holiday operations hours for the
recycling centers. Commissioner Johnson said he was concerned with changing the hours and
supported continuation of the existing hours. Vice Chairman Savage said he did not like
reducing the workers pay. Mr. Dickerson said that it would be the same pay for less work. Mr.
Dickerson said that the contract amount will be the same and the hours will be less. Mr.
Dickerson discussed the effective date of July 1, 1999 or March 1, 1999.
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Bowen, the
Board voted eight to one to approve the recommendation of the County Engineer as follows:
1) Implement the reduction in hours on July 1, 1999 (to be determined)
2) Maintain the current contract price of $28,500 per year for operating the recycling centers
and reduce the hours in lieu of an increase in contract price
3) Make minor improvement to the recycling centers to enhance their utility. Improvements
would be better areas for the disposal of white goods and yard waste.
Commissioner Johnson was opposed to the motion. The effective date is to be determined by
Mr. Dickerson. Commissioner Bowen asked that a notice be posted at the container sites thirty
days in advance.
Approved Hours of Operation
Closed:
Sunday until 2:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day
April thru October 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
November thru March 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Housekeeping - Triple P - Phil Dickerson
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Hammond, the
Board voted unanimously to approve the staff recommendation that the contract be renewed with
Triple P Services, Inc. and that the annual compensation be increased from $503,530.20 to
$521,364.72 with the agreement that the Company’s employees working in Pitt County be given
$0.35 per hour raise in compensation.
Right-of Way Deed - Phil Dickerson
Mr. Dickerson informed the Board that the Department of Transportation Division of
Highways needs 264 square feet of the County property purchased from BB&T to accommodate
the installation of a traffic signal when the Pitt Street-Greene Street one way pair is constructed.
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Granting the property to the Division will have no appreciable effect on the use of the property.
The Division has offered $800 for the property.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Gaskins, seconded by Commissioner Shank, the
Board voted unanimously to follow the staff recommendation for the Chairman to be authorized
to execute a deed conveying the required property to the North Carolina Division of Highways.
Appointments to Committee for Employment of People with Disabilities
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Shank, the
Board voted unanimously to appoint Casey Britton and Jenee Brewer to the Pitt County
Committee for Employment of People with Disabilities.
Ms. Britton and Jenee Brewer will replace Sandy Baldwin and Carole Reynolds.
Chairman’s Appointments
Chairman James appointed Commissioner Ward to serve on the Airport Authority on
behalf of the Board of Commissioners. He also asked Commissioner Gaskins to continue to
serve as a liaison for the Board on the County Planning Board and Commissioner Gaskins
agreed.
Chairman James also asked Commissioner Ward to serve on the Sheppard Memorial
Library Board, and she agreed.
Global TransPark Zone Commission - Board Appointments
Chairman James said that he had appointed David Hammond to the Global TransPark
Commission since he thought that this was supposed to be a Chairman’s appointment to that
board and he felt a commissioner should serve in that position. However, he stated that this was
an appointment that the whole Board of Commissioners would have to vote on. He stated that if
the Board takes no action then Ed Bright would remain on the Global TransPark Authority.
Commissioner Hammond stated that he had expressed an interest in serving on that
Board. Commissioner Shank asked about the terms of the current members. The members
terms expire in June of 1999, 2000, and 2001.
Mr. Robinson stated that several of the boards that the commissioners are appointed to,
have set terms which had not been adhered to in the past. Commissioner Hammond said he did
not have any problem with Ed Bright continuing to serve.
Vice Chairman Savage moved to appoint Commissioner Hammond to replace Ed Bright
on the Global TransPark Authority. Commissioner Bowen seconded the motion.
Commissioner Owens offered a substitute motion to allow Ed Bright to continue to serve
on the Global TransPark. He said they have three people serving on that board and they have
done a good job so their terms should expire normally. He stated that it is not a mandate that a
commissioner has to serve on the Global TransPark Authority. He also noted that Ed Bright is
serving as Vice President of the authority.
Commissioner Owens offered a motion to allow Commissioner Hammond to replace him
on the Development Commission and let Ed Bright stay on the Global TransPark Authority.
Commissioner Hammond said he was not interested in serving on the Development
Commission.
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Commissioner Ward asked about leaving Dr. Bright on the GTP Board until his term
expires and consider putting Commissioner Hammond on that Board when a term expires June
30, 1999.
Chairman James commented about the GTP using money coming from the Pitt County
taxpayers and that fifteen percent of that money is used for administrative costs in Lenoir County
and Wake County and then the counties have to borrow their own money. Ed Bright said that
Wake County is not receiving any of these funds. He stated that the $5.00 tax is going off in
July, 1999. Dr. Bright said that the money cannot go anywhere but Pitt County and that we also
get a portion of the $7 million. He also noted that if the County were to withdraw from the GTP,
then the funds borrowed would have to be paid back.
Commissioner Owens reiterated his substitute motion for Commissioner Hammond to fill
the term which expires June 30, 1999. Commissioner Ward seconded this motion. Vice
Chairman Savage said he thought it was the general consensus of the Board to have a county
commissioner on the GTP board. He said he believed there should be a commissioner serving
on that board. He stated that Dr. Bright did a good job while he was there but that he would not
support the substitute motion. Commissioner Johnson stated his support for Dr. Bright to
continue serving, especially since he is currently Vice Chairman and his being in that position
enables Pitt County to be ahead in prospects for Pitt County. Commissioner Shank commended
Commissioner Hammond for his willingness to compromise so the County could have both
individuals on the GTP Board. Commissioner Bowen suggested appointment of Commissioner
Hammond and the reappoint of Ed Bright in July 1999. Commissioner Hammond said he would
support his waiting until June 1999 to be appointed.
Chairman James called for a vote on the substitute motion. Commissioners in favor of
the motion were: Owens, Gaskins, Hammond, Ward, Shank, and James. Commissioners
opposed were: James, Johnson, and Bowen.
Juvenile Crime Prevention Program - John Bulow, Assistant Manager
Mr. Bulow stated that the State of North Carolina is reorganizing the Community Based
Alternatives programs and funds and it will be under the Juvenile Justice Reform Act as adopted
by the General Assembly in the last session. The Youth Services Advisory Committee will cease
to exist once the Juvenile Justice Crime Prevention Council has been appointed, which is
composed of twenty-five members. This council will then function to administer CBA funding
and the additional funds appropriated by the Legislature ($58,317) for the establishment of a day
reporting center for court ordered youth. Mr. Bulow stated that the Youth Services Advisory
Committee has provided a recommendation. Mr. Bulow said the General Statute calls for a two
year staggered term and it is recommended that the Board consider appointing one half of the
proposed board to a one year term with the option to serve two full terms and the remainder to a
two year term with the option to be reappointed for one two year term.
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Owens, the
Board voted unanimously to follow the recommendation of the current Youth Services Advisory
Committee and appoint the following members to the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council as
described below:
One Year Terms
School Superintendent or designee
Chief of Police
Sheriff or designee
District Attorney or designee
Chief Court Counselor or designee
Director, Mental Health or designee
Arlene Ferren
Don Greenwalt - Winterville
James Tripp
Tom Haigwood
Eve C. Rogers
Faye Bleicher
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DSS Director or designee
County Manager or designee
Substance Abuse Professional
Member of Faith Community
County Commissioner
Person under 21
Two Year Terms
Juvenile Defense Attorney
Chief District Court Judge or designee
Member of Business Community
Local Health Director or Designee
Representative of United Way
Representative of Parks and Recreation
County Commissioner Appointee
County Commissioner Appointee
County Commissioner Appointee
County Commissioner Appointee
County Commissioner Appointee
County Commissioner Appointee
Peggy Chandler
John Bulow
Tom Savidge - Mental Health
Margaret Blackmon
Beth Ward (recent appointment)
No recommendation to date.
Earl Brown - local attorney
David A. Leech
At the discretion of the Board
No recommendation to date.
Jay Faron - Boys & Girls Club
Bobby Short - Greenville
Stanley Melvin - Juvenile Detention
Dale Panaro - 4H
Alice Brewington - Greenville
Blythe Tennent - Mediation
Brian Stewart - Juvenile Court Services
Judy Baker - ECU Volunteer Services
Chairman James asked for a volunteer from the Board of Commissioners to serve on
this committee. The Committee meets the 4 th Friday of every month at 3:00 p.m.
Commissioner Ward volunteered.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Hammond, seconded by Commissioner Shank, the
Board voted unanimously to appoint Commissioner Ward to the Juvenile Crime Prevention
Committee to serve a one-year term.
Mr. Bulow stated that he would bring additional recommendations to the Board.
Meeting Schedule Changes
Mr. Robinson presented two changes to the Board’s meeting calendar. He stated that
the February 9 and 10 meetings had been changed to just one meeting on February 10. The
County will be closed on Good Friday in April instead of Easter Monday so the April calendar has
changed back to the first and third meetings as normal and the April 19 th regular meeting will
also include a budget workshop. Mr. Robinson also stated that the City of Greenville will hold
their budget public hearing on June 7 th , at the same time when the County had scheduled its
public hearing. Mr. Robinson recommended changing the County’s public hearing to Tuesday,
June 8 th at 7:00 p.m.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Shank, seconded by Commissioner Hammond, the
Board voted unanimously to update the Board’s calendar as recommended by the Manager.
Identification badges - John Bulow
Mr. Bulow reported that he had been instructed to investigate supplying identification
badges for employees in all county buildings. He stated the committee had looked into badges,
which could be integrated with a security system in county buildings as well as the Courthouse.
These badges would also be used for State employees in the Courthouse. Mr. Bulow stated that
the Committee recommends a new digital badge system that would work in the courthouse,
Health, Mental Health, Schools, and the County Office Building. He stated that the Board would
need to appropriate $14,000 for the necessary equipment and badges and the funds would have
to come from the contingency fund. Originally there would be 600-700 badges needed. Mr.
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Bulow said that the County employees currently have badges but these badges would have a
digital strip and would be used with a security system.
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Hammond, seconded by Vice Chairman Savage, the
Board voted unanimously to approve the $14,000 expenditure on equipment and the
identification badges.
Cablecasting Equipment Bids - Arlen Holt
Mr. Holt reported that they had opened bids on Friday, January 29, 1999 for the
equipment to be used for cablecasting the Board of Commissioners meetings. He said he had
received three bids, which met the minimum qualifications. Mr. Holt said that he had reviewed
the specifications and the bids with Jake Postma. Mr. Holt stated that they recommend a
contract with Sound Advice, Inc. in the amount of $108,025.70 for cablecasting equipment for
the Board meetings. He stated that the Sound Advice bid was approximately $250 more than
the lowest bid.
Bids received:
Clark-Powell Associates, Inc. $127,768.00
Sound Advice, Inc. $108,025.70
Quail Video Products, Inc. $107,779.10
UPON MOTION by Commissioner Shank, seconded by Vice Chairman Savage, to follow
the staff’s recommendation to award the cablecasting equipment contract to Sound Advice in the
amount of $108,025.70. Mr. Holt stated that Sound Advice had the best response to customer
service and is closer to Pitt County. Commissioner Hammond moved for the question. Vice
Chairman Savage asked about the type of equipment that they were bidding on? Mr. Holt stated
that he went to other governments, compared cameras, and compared their systems. Vice
Chairman Savage asked about installation and service fees. Mr. Holt said that he had training
included also. He stated it was a four-camera system, with a live fiberoptic system which would
be on line to the City of Greenville’s video/audio control room. This system would include the
production, presentation system, and upgrade on the audio system. Commissioner Hammond
called for the question once again. Chairman James asked for a vote on the motion.
Commissioners voted eight to one in favor of the motion. Commissioner Owens opposed the
motion.
Mr. Holt stated he would like to return to the Board in March with other areas of concern.
Gun Permit Fees - Commissioner Bowen
Commissioner Bowen stated that he asked for this item to be on the agenda. He stated
that Pitt County has been charging $20 for handgun permits. He said that the State law up until
six or seven years ago only allowed counties to charge $5 for a gun permit. Pitt County asked
for special legislation to increase the permit fee to $20, which was to be used to build a firing
range for citizens to be trained on shooting. He said that the Manager and the Assistant
Manager had agreed that this would not happen because of the liability issue. Mr. Bill Young,
President of the Wildlife Club spoke about the increase in the fee at that time and stated that
increasing the fee from $5 to $20 was excessive. Commissioner Bowen said if you look across
the State there are only three counties that charge more than $5. The permit is good for five
years and the indication in the minutes was that the monies generated from the increased fee
would be placed in a fund for training to be provided for law enforcement officers and citizens.
Commissioner Bowen said that this has not happened. He would like to ask the Board to reduce
that fee back to $5.00. Commissioner Hammond asked when the fee actually increased. Ms.
JoAnne Burgdorff responded that it was increased in 1993. Vice Chairman Savage spoke about
the Brady Bill. Commissioner Bowen said that the fees are not being accessed for that purpose.
Vice Chairman Savage suggested that the first permit be free and then charge for subsequent
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permits. Commissioner Hammond stated that the local law enforcement officers need a firing
range. He said the former Sheriff appeared before this Board on several occasions requesting a
firing range for his officers but it has not happened. He also stated that he was in favor of
reducing the fee because the other 97 counties have not supported this increase. He said if the
County is not going to supply the range, then the fee needs to be reduced.
Commissioner Shank moved for this Board to take steps to reduce the fee back to $5.
Ms. Bryan said $140,000 has been collected that has been blended into the general fund of the
County. Commissioner Hammond stated that he questioned liability as being a reason to not
move forward on this project. Commissioner Bowen stated that if someone wants additional
training, the Wildlife Club would train you for a fee.
Commissioner Bowen motioned that $140,000 be used to help law enforcement to have
a range and move the fee back to $5. Commissioner Hammond seconded the motion.
Chairman James explained that this money is in the general fund and has already been
obligated. Chairman James said Pitt County could not afford a firing range when they can pay
$4,000 per year to the Wildlife Club for law enforcement to go train on their grounds. He stated
that the County staff is also working on a plan with Pitt Community College to offer additional
training in this area.
Commissioner Hammond stated that using the Wildlife Club is a Band-Aid not a
permanent solution. He supported moving aggressively towards providing a firing range for law
enforcement training. Mr. Bulow stated that when investigating the possibility of having a firing
range, which also allowed the public to go and train, it created a new and expensive liability
factor.
Chairman James said the $20 per applicant just covers the processing of the permit.
Commissioner Hammond said the county needs to provide the training services. Ms. Bryan said
it would cost $40,000 to process those fees. Mr. Bill Young, President of the Pitt County Wildlife
Club stated that there was no problem with the law enforcement officers using their range, but he
was present to express that the $20 fee being too high for the gun permit. He said the County is
taxing a few individuals for a service that will benefit many.
A citizen in the audience spoke about a firing range in Los Angeles where the public can
also go for training. He stated that personnel man the range in order to lower the liability.
Commissioner Owens offered a substitute motion to table the lowering of the gun permit
fee and asked that the Chairman appoint a committee to address some of these questions and
concerns. Vice Chairman Savage seconded the motion.
Chairman James called for a vote on the substitute motion to table this item:
Commissioners in favor of the substitute motion were: Owens, Gaskins, James, and Johnson.
Commissioners opposed to the substitute motion were: Hammond, Savage, Ward and Shank,
and Bowen. The substitute motion failed.
Chairman James called for a vote on the original motion to lower the gun permit fee for
Pitt County from $20 to $5. Commissioners in favor of lowering the fee were: Hammond, Ward,
Johnson, Shank, Bowen, James, and Gaskins. Commissioner opposed were: Owens, and
Savage. The original motion passed. The Commissioners were instructed that this item would
have to be submitted as a local bill to the General Assembly by submission of the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION TO REDUCE PISTOL PERMIT FEE
ISSUED IN PITT COUNTY FROM $20.00 TO $5.00
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THAT WHEREAS, the Pitt County Board of Commissioners has considered the request
of its citizens to reduce the fee charged for issuance of a pistol permit from $20.00 to $5.00; and
WHEREAS, Pitt County is subject to special legislation which raised the fee for issuance
of a pistol permit from $5.00 to $20.00 in the 1993 Session under H. B. 715 Chapter 205; and
WHEREAS, this Board of County Commissioners has determined that there no longer
exists a good reason to charge the citizens of Pitt County the additional $15.000; and
WHEREAS, this Board is seeking the assistance of their legislative delegation to remove
Pitt County from this special legislation as the original need for the charge no longer exists;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Pitt County Board of Commissioners
hereby request that all members of the Pitt County Legislative Delegation introduce and see
enacted the removal of Pitt County from the special legislation mandating the Sheriff charge a
$20.00 fee for a pistol permit and allowing Pitt County to return to the $5.00 charge in effect in
the majority of the other North Carolina counties.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the Pitt County Board of
Commissioners and the Clerk to the Board shall execute this Resolution confirming this request.
Duly adopted this the 1 st day of February, 1999.
_____________________
Eugene James, Chairman
Attest:
___________________
Susan J. Banks, Clerk
School Priorities
Mr. Robinson presented the school priorities which were submitted by commissioners
and by the Board of Education and allowed time for the commissioners to review the list. Mr.
Robinson asked Loretta Lewellyn and Becky Young to assist in this presentation. The
Commissioners were then asked to prioritize their top three issues during a five-minute break.
List of priorities as submitted by Commissioners (not prioritized):
• Identify school sites in advance
• Identify and give reasons for budget
• Every child have same rights and privileges
• Offer same courses to all children
• All schools should be equal
• Add 150 students to Ayden-Grifton High School and
• Add 150 students to Ayden-Grifton Middle Schools
• Reinstate corporal punishment back to local schools
• Cut number of in and out of school suspensions
• Accelerated learning/reading
• Golf, Tennis Swimming facilities north of the river (North Pitt)
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• Use of school buildings, afternoons, evenings and weekends
5-year capital plans based on projected student population and identify according to number
of classrooms needed and supporting functions needed
• Methods & Measurements implemented to Raise Education Outcomes
• 5 year Maintenance Plan
• School Buses - Consider Use by
- County’s Population
- Students for After School Activities
• Supporting Info with Board of Education budget, include the expected outcome for new
programs; Goals and Objectives
• Plans to reduce pupil drop-out (25% loss)
• Utilize excess Capacity before new schools are built.
• Source of funding for improvements
• Funding for Technology
Votes
Received
Pitt County Board of Commissioners
School Priorities as Outlined February 1, 1999
38 Better School Planning & Utilization
10 Five Year Capital Plan - Based on projected student population and
identified according to number of classrooms needed and supporting
functions needed.
9 Utilize excess capacity before new schools are built.
8 Identify sites for new schools in advance.
6 Add 150 students to Ayden-Grifton High School and 150 to Ayden-Grifton
Middle School.
5 Five Year Maintenance Plan
21 Increased Student Performance
10 Plans to reduce pupil drop-out.
7 Reinstate corporal punishment.
4 Cut number of in-school and out-of-school suspensions.
0 Funding for technology.
0 Accelerated learning / reading.
7 Community Use of School Resources
4 School buses - consider use by County’s population and students for after
school activities.
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3 Use of school buildings during afternoons, evenings, and weekends.
6 Benchmarks, Outcomes for $$ Spent (Value)
5 Outcomes for dollars requested.
1 Methods and measurements implemented to raise education outcomes.
6 Comprehensive Supporting Budget Information
4 Identify reasons for current expense budget.
2 Sources of funding for improvements.
0 Supporting information and contributors for budget requests.
2 Equal Education Opportunities at All County Schools
1 All schools to be equal.
1 Golf, tennis, soccer, and swimming facilities north of the river –
preferably at North Pitt High School
0 Every child to have same rights and privileges as others in Pitt County.
0 Offer same courses to all children.
• Identify school age population and most logical, efficient means of serving without
regard to school district lines.
• Have school data validated by County Planning.
UPON MOTION by Vice Chairman Savage, seconded by Commissioner Shank, the
meeting was adjourned at 12:35 p.m. The next Board meeting will be held February 10 at 5:30
p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan J. Banks, CMC
Clerk to the Board
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